This weekend, the South Shore's holiday spirit is in full display as the fifth annual Merry Market opens its doors at The Red Lion Inn Barn in downtown Cohasset. With proceeds benefiting the local non-profit A Place 2 Rise, this year's event not only promises unique holiday shopping but also serves as a lifeline for local families facing financial strain. A Place 2 Rise steps in with support ranging from winter coats to mortgage payments for those blindsided by life's unexpected crises.
Founded by Aubrey Schwartz, the market has evolved into the organization's biggest fundraiser. In a statement to CBS News, Schwartz highlighted that the humble beginnings were rooted in a personal understanding of choosing between diapers or milk, a testament to the difficult choices faced by many families. This year's event is featuring 60 vendors showcasing everything from handcrafted candles by Feather + Finn Candle Co. to original artwork and, for the second year, 10 kid vendors adding to the festivity, their young energy mistaken for professional entrepreneurs.
The community's warm embrace of the Merry Market is evident, as reported by Rachel Meyers, who mentioned to CBS News, "Never in our wildest dreams did we envision that it would become what it has today." Last year's market was a crowded house with attendees barely able to see the walls, a shared memory by vendors Jackie Magliozzi and Catherine MacDonald of Feather + Finn Candle Co. The event, aside from providing an economic boost to local businesses, also reflects the resilience and generosity of mothers, as noted by MacDonald.
Adding to the holiday cheer, the Merry Market offers a special brunch with Santa for kids and an early-bird shopping option. However, it's not just the big contributions that matter. Schwartz recounted a heartfelt moment when a $2 donation was accompanied by a note, saying, "This is all I can afford, but I really appreciate what you're doing," as mentioned on CBS News. For more details on the purpose behind the market and ticket information, visitors can check out A Place 2 Rise's website.
